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Department of Agriculture and Water Resources Growing reconciliation Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–2019
© Commonwealth of Australia 2017 Cover The department works to build and support a diverse workforce—one that reflects the diversity of the broader Australian community. Staff and rangers featured on the cover are Tahlia Durante, Bruce Lansdown, Rakrakpuy Marika and Allan Epong. Photographs: Kerry Trapnell. Ownership of intellectual property rights Unless otherwise noted, copyright (and any other intellectual property rights, if any) in this publication is owned by the Commonwealth of Australia (referred to as the Commonwealth). Creative Commons licence All material in this publication is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia Licence, save for content supplied by third parties, logos and the Commonwealth Coat of Arms. Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia Licence is a standard form licence agreement that allows you to copy, distribute, transmit and adapt this publication provided you attribute the work. A summary of the licence terms is available from creativecommons.org/ licenses/by/3.0/au/deed.en. The full licence terms are available from creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/au/legalcode. Inquiries about the licence and any use of this document should be sent to copyright@agriculture.gov.au. Cataloguing data This publication (and any material sourced from it) should be attributed as: Department of Agriculture and Water Resources 2017 Growing reconciliation: Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–2019, Canberra. CC BY 3.0. This publication is available at agriculture.gov.au/publications. Travis Power Assistant Secretary, People Capability Department of Agriculture and Water Resources Postal address GPO Box 858 Canberra ACT 2601 Telephone 02 6272 4899 Email travis.power@agriculture.gov.au Web agriculture.gov.au The Australian Government acting through the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has exercised due care and skill in preparing and compiling the information and data in this publication. Notwithstanding, the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources, its employees and advisers disclaim all liability, including liability for negligence and for any loss, damage, injury, expense or cost incurred by any person as a result of accessing, using or relying upon any of the information or data in this publication to the maximum extent permitted by law. Inside back cover photograph: Kerry Trapnell
Contents
Dedication 1 Tables
Our focus areas 2 A1 Cultural learning—informs, reflects and
transforms 14
Our reconciliation vision 3
A2 Cultural recognition of the longest-surviving
Secretary’s message 4 continuous cultures in the world 14
Champion’s support 5 A3 Cultural acknowledgement—shows respect,
Message from Reconciliation Australia 6 appreciation commitment 15
B1 Economic diversification—stimulates thinking,
Who we are and what we do 9
identifies collaboration 19
What we say about reconciliation 11
B2 Cultural acknowledgement—demonstrates respect
Extending respect 12 and commitment 19
Northern futures 17 B3 Biosecurity capability—protects Australia from exotic
pests and diseases 19
Inspired partnerships 21
C1 Events and celebrations—build relationships,
Rewarding careers 24 deepen unity, value contributions 22
Collective decisions 28 C2 Engagement and communication—creates
connections, informs decisions 22
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
ambassadors 34 C3 Partnerships and outreach—with networks,
partners and communities 23
Glossary 35
D1 Recruitment—increases number of First Australians
employed 26
D2 Retention and development—lengthens First
Australians’ careers 27
D3 Cultural recognition—of First Australians’ heritage
and cultures 27
E1 Shared decision making–influences and promotes
self-determination 30
E2 Monitoring, evaluation, reporting and improvements
of reconciliation 31
E3 Procurement—increases prosperity and
shared value 32
E4 Departmental pride—promotes recognition of
First Australians 33
Figures
1 Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
reconciliation highlights 2012–2016 7
2 Reconciliation Action Plan governance structures 28
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
iii
Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19
Dedication
This document is dedicated to the collective efforts of all staff who take reconciliation actions. Our voices,
wisdom and commitment are reflected in the quotes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ambassadors
and staff, which appear throughout.
Acknowledgement
The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country
throughout Australia and their continuing connections to land, sea and community.
We pay our respect to their cultures and Elders past, present and future.
We recognise all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and invite you to join our journey
to reconciliation.
Terms of respect
In this document, the terms Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and First Australians are both
used. These terms do not reflect the diversity of all peoples. The specific use of the word Indigenous is
reserved for proper nouns. We have used standard Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Studies (AIATSIS) spellings throughout this document.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are advised that this document may contain images, names and
quotes of people who have passed away.
Sunset on Torres Strait
Photograph: Kerry Trapnell
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
1
Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19
Our focus areas
• Extending respect
• Northern futures
• Inspired partnerships
• Rewarding careers
• Collective decisions
Reconciliation Australia themes
Relationships
Strong relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other
Australians are important to us to build trust and dialogue, advance equality and inclusivity,
recognise identity, learn from each other and demonstrate integrity.
Respect
We respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures, lands, histories and rights.
These are important to our staff, our stakeholders and our communities. Together we foster
cultural pride, shared understanding, leadership and capacity, agility and resilience.
Opportunities
Developing opportunities for and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,
organisations and communities is critical to our success and sustainability. We reward
critical thinking, develop teams, innovate systems and technologies, challenge limitations and
embrace diversity.
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19
Our reconciliation vision
Our vision is for a reconciled and inclusive Australian society that benefits our staff, our partners, our
families and our communities. Our partnerships recognise and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander peoples’ customs, traditions and diversity. Our commitments are grounded in effective and practical
action. Our leadership powerfully effects reconciliation.
Our future workplace is free of racism, all our staff participate equally in career opportunities, our business
structures and reconciliation actions are aligned and we recognise that addressing the past is critical to
growing our future. Our workplaces and our work are strengthened by our recognition of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander peoples and their participation.
The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has developed this Reconciliation Action Plan to set
our path towards that future in the next three years.
Reconciliation in action
Ambassador Bruce Lansdown and Henry Epong of Mandubarra Aboriginal Land and Sea Inc.
Photograph: Kerry Trapnell
‘When the day comes that we can all work together and see people as people without judgement—
that’s the day reconciliation happens and we are truly working together as people.’
Bruce Lansdown, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ambassador, Cairns.
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19
Secretary’s message
From the northernmost tip of Torres Strait through to the Southern Ocean, and
from east to west, the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has a broad
reach. We also have significant long-term relationships with Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander communities. We work with the oldest continuous living cultures on
the planet.
Reconciliation is fundamental to the work we do and how we do it.
We recognise the past and are investing in the future. Our practice of reconciliation
turns opportunities into practical action that supports Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander peoples to achieve equality in all aspects of life—and this benefits
all Australians.
The Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–2019 outlines the five focus areas where our energy, wholehearted
commitment and resources will fundamentally alter the future:
•• extending respect
•• northern futures
•• inspired partnerships
•• rewarding careers
•• collective decisions.
Daryl Quinlivan
Secretary and Indigenous Champion
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19
Champion’s support
Our Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–2019 (RAP) articulates our commitment
to deepening unity, building relationships, extending respect and creating
opportunities in the department, with our partners and in our communities.
We put reconciliation into practice as we employ more Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander graduates and trainees, as demand for labour force in our remote offices
increases and as we strengthen procurement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander businesses. Our Reconciliation Action Plan 2012–2016 provided a solid
foundation, and this plan builds on that.
Our RAP creates opportunities for our staff to learn and grow. It lays out
partnerships with suppliers, businesses, rangers and community groups. It
contributes to the livelihoods, landscapes and cultures of our communities. This collective commitment has
been made possible by the foresight and dedication of our staff, stakeholders and communities, and we are
grateful for this.
We are pleased to share our RAP and invite you to share your reconciliation story with us.
Reconciliation is all of our business.
Lyn O’Connell
Deputy Secretary and Indigenous Champion
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19
Message from Reconciliation
Australia
Reconciliation Australia congratulates the Department of Agriculture and Water
Resources on its past successes and ongoing commitment to reconciliation as it
implements its fourth Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
Since the implementation of its first RAP in 2007, the Department of Agriculture
and Water Resources has been a leading advocate for reconciliation and has
demonstrated dedication to making progress across the key dimensions of the RAP
program—relationships, respect and opportunities.
The department understands the importance of building and maintaining
respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
to produce mutually beneficial outcomes. It champions these relationships by
working to promote and encourage staff relationships with external Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
stakeholders including Elders, schools, universities, regional communities and consultants.
Respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories and cultures is key to the department’s
core values and vision for reconciliation. It demonstrates this respect through its commitment to
contributing to the elimination of racism by supporting the ‘Racism. It stops with me’ campaign and
engaging with staff to sign a pledge to the campaign.
The department is dedicated to driving reconciliation through employment and training outcomes for
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It demonstrates this in its actionable goal to provide leadership
training and talent development opportunities to 10 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees
per year.
The department’s Stretch RAP signifies its deep commitment to reconciliation in the organisation and across
its sphere of influence. On behalf of Reconciliation Australia, I commend the department on its Stretch RAP,
and I look forward to following its ongoing reconciliation journey.
Justin Mohamed
Chief Executive Officer, Reconciliation Australia
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19
OUR RECONCILIATION
FIGURE 1 Department of Agriculture and Water Resources reconciliation highlights 2012–2016
853
17% of staff responded to Reconciliation Australia
108
Workplace Reconciliation Barometer Survey
vel 31 SES
le
S 14 entry
34
0 manag
Self-identified
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff
AP
em
ent 468
9
9
Broome and Derby
95%
Ambass
Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander ambassadors
supporting local networks
of staff think relationships between
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and other
Australians are important for the nation
69%
of staff feel comfortable giving an
acknowledgement of country
$5,419,648 spent on IPP contracts 2015-2016
IPP Indigenous Procurement Policy
Note: Department of Agriculture and Water Resources staff were asked to complete the Reconciliation Australia Workplace Reconciliation Barometer Survey between 19
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19HIGHLIGHTS 2012–2016
First ambassador appointed
from the Torres Strait in 2016
100% 66
of Torres Strait and Cape York
staff are First Australians
contracted ranger groups
in biosecurity
Cape York
North East Arnhem land
sadors
Networks
$12 4 m committed to expand ranger activities
Shepparton
$845,000 spent on ranger biosecurity equipment and training
August and 9 September 2016.
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Who we are and what
we do
We help drive a stronger Australian economy by building a more profitable, resilient and sustainable
agriculture sector and by supporting the sustainable and productive management and use of rivers and
water resources.
The department has a wide domestic and international presence in more than 300 locations around
Australia and 16 countries around the world.
We work in airports, mail centres, shipping ports, quarantine facilities, laboratories, abattoirs and offices in
cities, regional centres and rural communities throughout Australia and overseas.
Our skills and experience are diverse. We are policy officers, programme administrators, scientists,
researchers, economists, accountants, information and communication technology specialists, veterinarians,
meat inspectors, survey staff, biosecurity officers and more.
Our work involves collaboration and consultation with many other Australian Government and state and
territory agencies. Our partnerships and client base are broad and include primary industries, importers and
exporters, consumers, rural and regional communities, and travellers.
We employ over 5,000 people across this broad range of activities around Australia, and 108 of those
self-identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander or both. In areas such as biosecurity and natural resource
management (also known as ‘caring for country’), these roles may be considered a natural progression from
traditional land and sea custodial relationships.
Dusk in Torres Strait
Photograph: Kerry Trapnell
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Inspecting a leaf for pathogens
Solodi Buthungguliwuy accepted the 2016 Indigenous Land Management Award at the National Landcare Awards on behalf of Crocodile Islands Rangers.
Photograph: Kerry Trapnell
‘Reconciliation means equality and everyone being able to work together. My
reconciliation journey as an ambassador is to promote, support and clarify the
importance of reconciliation to the staff in my region.’
Kim Bland, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ambassador, Post Entry
Quarantine, Mickleham, Victoria
‘I am determined to make a difference for my people. I want to go back to my school and
tell everyone about my job.’
Dakota Killer, Melbourne International Airport, Victoria.
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19What we say about
reconciliation
The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working Group was established in April 2016. These statements
were made at the first meeting in response to the open question ‘what does reconciliation mean to
you?’ The statements enabled group members to create a vision. Once spoken, these statements added
momentum, inspired development of the plan and united and connected members. Working group members
said reconciliation:
•• will be achieved when we no longer just talk about it … it’s a part of everyday life
•• results from working through issues together and building common ground and common goals
•• deepens when we have real understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences
and cultures
•• means seeing the whole person—not just their culture or race
•• occurs when we are connected to nature and recognise the spirit that unites us
•• is a privilege for those who look after our land and water
•• takes time to recognise and learn from past political and historical events
•• requires action in the present to transform our collective future
•• is part of what shifts social disadvantage
•• has deep roots in strong cultural traditions
•• takes mutual respect and understanding
•• lives in conversations among and between departmental staff, our primary stakeholders and the
wider public and private sectors at individual, family, community, regional, state and national levels
•• means accepting each other and our diversity
•• achieves new relationships, creates opportunity and advances respect and recognition
•• is a vehicle for righting past wrongs
•• promotes integrity and unity.
‘To me, reconciliation means all Australians are taking ownership of our shared
history and taking a shared responsibility for our future. This relates to not just our
history of colonisation but also our development, our military history, our science
history, our sporting history—everything. As a proud ambassador, I am able to
contribute to this journey to reconciliation.’
Dennis Seinor, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ambassador, Sydney
regional office.
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Extending respect
Water, Coorong and Ngarrindjeri
Since 2011 the department has assisted the SA government and the Ngarrindjeri people to care for wetlands
south-east of Adelaide through the Coorong Lower Lakes and Murray Mouth Recovery Project.
The five-year project aims to help manage the Coorong region as a chain of healthy, productive and resilient
saltwater lagoons and wetlands of international importance. The Ngarrindjeri Regional Authority actively
undertakes natural and cultural resource management. Participation in the Coorong project has increased
Ngarrindjeri knowledge and understanding of legislation, policy, management and planning processes, and
refined natural resource management practices.
The project has provided opportunities for community members to improve capacity and skills to conduct
on-ground caring for country work in nurseries, revegetation projects, pest and weed control, and site
monitoring. Ngarrindjeri Elders and young people have worked together, facilitating intergenerational
transfer of cultural knowledge. They have deepened their knowledge of country and improved their natural
resource and project management skills. This in turn has led to the Ngarrindjeri Regional Authority and
its member organisations developing significant training, employment and business opportunities. These
opportunities have created employment for Ngarrindjeri people and greatly improved the region and
the nation.
The project has improved personal, community and Ngarrindjeri nation resilience. It has built
on the interconnections of people, land, water and all living things for more sustainable natural
resource management.
Eastern reach of Coorong National Park
Photograph: Rachael Boyce
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Ngarrindjeri Ngopamuldi employees replanting Terringie wetland
Kevin Kropinyeri Jnr (left) and Keith Rigney Jnr (right), at Raukkan.
Photograph: SA Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources
‘Before the RAP consultation I thought I was the only Indigenous officer in Adelaide,
but now another Indigenous officer has identified himself. The ambassador’s role is
a bit more involved with the network and helping with the RAP and NAIDOC Week.’
Hedley Vogt, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ambassador,
Adelaide regional office.
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Our commitments—extending respect and recognition
TABLE A1 Cultural learning—informs, reflects and transforms
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
A1.1 Cultural learning Implement and review a cultural learning training Assistant Commence
Increase knowledge strategy that supports staff through online Secretary (AS), March 2017; fully
and understanding of channels, face-to-face workshops and cultural People Capability implemented by
Aboriginal and Torres Strait immersion opportunities across national and supported by AS March 2019
Islander cultures, histories regional offices Science Services
and achievements in
the department 4,500 staff (85 per cent) to complete diversity Diversity e-learning
e-learning and 500 staff (or 10 per cent) to by May 2017 and
complete Core e-learning a Core e-learning by
April 2017
Deliver face-to-face cultural learning to executive Face-to-face pilot
staff, RAP implementation group members completed by
and supervisors of Aboriginal and Torres Strait September 2017
Islander staff and graduates
Pilot and deliver face-to-face cultural competency Complete
training to 80 per cent of biosecurity service competency training
delivery staff in community liaison roles pilot by March 2018
Provide supervisors of Aboriginal and Torres Strait October 2017
Islander staff with RAP implementation resources
in liaison with Reconciliation Australia: target
100 supervisors
a Core Cultural Learning: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australia (Core) is an innovative online course designed by the Australian Institute of
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) in cooperation with the Australian Government and the University of Sydney to strengthen
cultural competency.
TABLE A2 Cultural recognition of the longest-surviving continuous cultures in the world
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
A2.1 NAIDOC week Review human resources policies to remove Assistant Secretary NAIDOC Week
Recognise and celebrate barriers to, and encourage all staff participation (AS), People Capability annually
departmental connection in, NAIDOC Week activities
to culture, country and Target 250 staff, 15 stakeholders and
community in NAIDOC Week 10 community partners to participate in internal
or public NAIDOC week activities nationally
Provide opportunities for all Aboriginal and Secretary NAIDOC Week
Torres Strait Islander staff to participate in local annually
NAIDOC Week events
Remind all staff and supervisors to
accommodate staff participation in cultural and
community activities during NAIDOC Week
A2.2 New media Update This is our land—these are our people AS, Design and Change December 2017
Recognise and promote the video and distribute to staff through the internal
contribution of Indigenous website (mylink and #thatsmystory); 20 per cent
staff across the department of staff to access the video link
and with our stakeholders and
communities using websites Support and distribute audio recordings of at AS, Design and Change June 2018
and social media least five intimate dialogues between staff on
reconciliation
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19TABLE A3 Cultural acknowledgement—shows respect, appreciation commitment
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
A3.1 Cultural Review, update and promote Acknowledgement Assistant Secretary April annually
acknowledgement of Country and Welcome to Country guidelines (AS), People
Demonstrate respect, for departmental ceremonies Capability
appreciation and commitment Compile public documents on cultural protocols
to Aboriginal and Torres relevant to each state and territory and
Strait Islander peoples and specific regions. Make these available via the
communities by embedding department’s intranet site.
cultural acknowledgement and
protocols. Maintain a list of key contacts who deliver a AS, Service Delivery Review annually in
Welcome to Country in each region and ambassadors May (NRW)
Include an Acknowledgment of Country at the Indigenous Review annually in
start of important internal meetings; invite Champions May (NRW)
Traditional Owners or Custodians to give a
Welcome to Country at 10 significant events
across Australia each year
Promote Acknowledgement of Country practice AS, People March 2017
by staff through provision of words used in Capability
voluntary email signature blocks, lanyard cards
and on the departmental internal website
A3.2 Community language Pay the Community Language Allowance to AS, Science Services Allowance paid
allowance all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff annually in July
Acknowledge and encourage working in the Torres Strait and Northern
the use and retention of local Peninsular area who use a language other than
languages in daily use. English in their daily work
A3.3 Eliminate bias and Sign the Australian Human Rights Commission Secretary and AS, October 2017
racism support agreement ‘Racism. It stops with me’ Design and Change
Establish fair and equitable 50 per cent of Senior Executive Service to sign
workplaces where diversity and promote
is the norm and staff
demonstrate a commitment Provide face-to-face unconscious bias training AS, People Regular workshops in
to remove racism (to recognise and address the barriers that limit Capability 2017 and 2019
opportunities for diversity groups) for 400 staff
across all locations
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Roper River (Mole Hill region), Mangarrayi/Ngalakan country
Map and photograph: Simon Normand
Mangarrayi culture—caring for country
The Mangarrayi lands lie to the south-east of Katherine and include dry country, escarpments, swamps
and the cool, shaded creeks and billabongs of the Roper River region. Elsey National Park, on the site of old
Elsey Station, forms part of Mangarrayi country—which is shared with wallabies, kingfishers, flying foxes,
kangaroos and many other species. To the east of the national park, along the banks of the Roper River and
Elsey Creek, is the community of Jilkminggan and the home of the Mangarrayi.
At the request of the Jilkminggan community, maps of the country were painted to document the region and
its biodiversity, to preserve and pass on the traditional knowledge of the Mangarrayi lands.
The maps were produced through the shared effort of the artist and photographer Simon Normand and the
Mangarrayi Elders over many years. Simon was a teacher in the community over 20 years ago and, although
not Aboriginal, the trust built between him and Mangarrayi people brought life to the maps.
The prints were created through a Caring for our Country grant to the Roper River Landcare Group. Its goal
was to assist Mangarrayi people in marrying traditional and contemporary land management knowledge
and practices to protect and conserve the resources and biodiversity of their lands while preserving their
heritage, law and culture.
The prints are one product of the grant. They were gifted to the department in acknowledgement of its
support for this project. With permission of Traditional Custodians and the artist, they were displayed in
2016 in the Canberra offices as part of National Reconciliation Week events.
‘To me, reconciliation means having a healthy personal and professional respect for
all people. It means working together regardless of race, religion, belief or status. We
all bleed red! We are all equal! We are all one people!’
Gayle Heron, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ambassador,
Darwin regional office.
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Northern futures
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rangers have strengthened biosecurity surveillance across northern
Australia for many years. Recently, this has been expanded through funding initiatives identified in the
Our north, our future: White Paper on developing northern Australia ($12.4 million from 2015–16 to 2018–19).
The department has longstanding relationships with Torres Strait Regional Authority (TRSA) land and
sea rangers, and their communities, and agencies such as Australian Border Force and the Department of
Foreign Affairs and Trade. Together we protect land and sea environments from exotic pests, weeds and
disease threats.
In 2016 the department hosted a ranger forum. Rangers from across northern Australia came together
to develop relationships, exchange knowledge and skills, and build a strong working foundation for
collaborative biosecurity services. Future annual meetings are planned. These will not only build our
capacity but strengthen our resilience to emerging biosecurity threats.
Before setting fruit fly traps, departmental officers seek support and permission from landowners and
Traditional Custodians. The department also works with the Torres Strait community to raise awareness of
biosecurity risks, which has resulted in early reporting and responses to exotic pests, weeds and diseases.
Officers advise visitors and community representatives on how to maintain high levels of compliance with
Torres Strait biosecurity regulations.
Torres Strait rangers’ experience, knowledge, expertise, professionalism and hard work are critical to
biosecurity operations.
Drone technology
The department is extending biosecurity partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
This is critical to securing the priceless ecological diversity of Australia. The department is supporting this
work by recruiting new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, establishing the Indigenous Rangers
Biosecurity Network, and developing and delivering tropical biosecurity training for and by rangers and
their communities. As a part of this work, the department is piloting the use of drones to support rangers
with surveillance of tropical biosecurity.
Rowan Shee, Indigenous Protected Area Manager, Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation,
north of Cairns, explains:
The drones should be useful for weed surveys; for example, at this time of year
pond apple sheds a lot of its leaves, and the bare twigs and branches can be much
easier to spot from the air compared to trudging through swampy country and
riparian areas trying to spot it from under the canopy. Eventually, more advanced
drones could be used to survey the length of the upper East Normanby for salvinia
weed, saving a four-day remote walk for rangers.
Similarly, the drones should be able to reduce search time on marine debris
removal activities. Where the debris collects mainly in smaller sections of the
coast, we can head straight to those areas in the boat.
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
17
Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19I think flying the drone along access tracks just after the wet will give us a quick
picture of how much work is needed to make the track accessible again. In the
vehicle, when you get to the first tree fall across the track [you have to decide] … is
it worth chain-sawing through it and dragging it all away, or are there another 50
tree falls over the next kilometre?
They’ll be useful for getting aerial photos of work sites. At Old Daintree Mission
cemetery we think drone imagery will be better at identifying the shallow
depressions of old grave sites than just going on foot.
Jabalbina rangers display the Phantom 3 drone
Ranger Thomas Houghton (left) and Team Leader Bradley Creek (right).
Photograph: Rowan Shee
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Our commitments—northern futures
TABLE B1 Economic diversification—stimulates thinking, identifies collaboration
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
B1.1 First foods Hold a workshop with relevant stakeholders in portfolio Assistant September 2018
Identify social and economic agencies, research and development corporations and Secretary (AS),
diversification opportunities authorities of Traditional Owners and Custodians to discuss Live Animal
with Aboriginal and Torres opportunities for the production of traditional foods Exports
Strait Islander partners and and fibres
communities
TABLE B2 Cultural acknowledgement—demonstrates respect and commitment
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
B2.1 Permits and access Review, use and promote the department’s permit and AS, Science June 2018
Demonstrate respect to land access obligations when conducting remote area Services,
Aboriginal and Torres Strait training, research, meetings and projects on country supported
Islander communities by by northern
seeking appropriate permits ambassadors
and access to country
TABLE B3 Biosecurity capability—protects Australia from exotic pests and diseases
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
B3.1 Biosecurity Employment opportunities AS, Science June 2019
Strengthen Aboriginal and Increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Services
Torres Strait Islander capacity Islander ranger groups actively delivering biosecurity
for biosecurity surveillance services across northern Australia by 50 per cent
across Northern Australia Increase the number of identified positions for Aboriginal June 2018
and Torres Strait Islander staff working in biosecurity in
northern Australia by at least six
Training opportunities December 2017
Provide opportunities for northern Australian Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander rangers in emergency response
training: target 30
Establish biosecurity training capability in Aboriginal September 2018
and Torres Strait Islander organisations: target three
organisations to pilot training delivery
Skills exchange June 2018
A biosecurity-focused network for Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander land and sea rangers to be established and
meet annually
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Ambassador Eric Cottis investigating illegal fishing debris
Photograph: Kerry Trapnell
I find our department gives a high degree of respect to Traditional Owners and the
Custodians of Country—more than many other government departments. Respect is
an essential part of Indigenous culture. Respecting LORE, which is Indigenous law, as
well as western law is very important to me.’
Eric Cottis, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ambassador, Bamaga
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Inspired partnerships
Malak Malak Rangers care for country
The NT Malak Malak Rangers have partnered with the department’s Northern Australia Quarantine Strategy
(NAQS) programme for more than 25 years to care for 30,000 hectares of land bordering the iconic Daly
River between Darwin and Katherine. The department and the Malak Malak Rangers share a common
interest in caring for country and people.
The rangers first worked with the department to monitor exotic pests and diseases. Its role has since
expanded to include extensive invasive weed management programmes and surveillance of exotic pests and
diseases. The rangers breed and distribute biological control species and have successfully eradicated dense
infestations of salvinia and mimosa weeds.
The rangers have built on the success of these programmes and expanded into allied programmes. Six
rangers have completed a Certificate II in Fisheries Compliance and work regularly with the NT Department
of Primary Industry and Fisheries, Australian Border Force and the NT Police. The Rangers conduct joint
patrols with these agencies to identify potential breaches of recreational fishing regulations.
The achievements of the Malak Malak Rangers in the Daly River have raised the profile of their partnership
with the department and the NT Government.
Malak Malak rangers in training
Rangers work with departmental community liaison officers and veterinary officers to minimise biosecurity risk posed by feral pigs.
Photograph: Elizabeth McCrudden
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Our commitments—inspired partnerships extend
reconciliation impact
TABLE C1 Events and celebrations—build relationships, deepen unity, value contributions
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
C1.1 National Organise, register with Reconciliation Australia and Assistant Secretary May (NRW)
Reconciliation Week publicise three events in Canberra and at least one event (AS), People annually
(NRW) in each regional office, including Torres Strait Capability, and
Bring people together ambassadors
to build relationships in
acknowledgement of NRW Sponsor one external NRW event with a community AS, Design and May (NRW)
organisation and encourage staff and senior leaders to Change annually
participate
C1.2 Innovation and Establish guidelines and present a Secretary’s award for Indigenous Guidelines
awards reconciliation Champions and AS, and fund by
Acknowledge all staff efforts Establish an innovation fund for piloting new approaches People Capability April 2017
and promote reconciliation to reconciliation Awarded
innovation annually in
May (NRW)
TABLE C2 Engagement and communication—creates connections, informs decisions
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
C2.1 Internal engagement RAP Forum Assistant Secretary Annually—in
Communicate directly with Promote RAP Forum e-membership to 500 staff, update (AS), People Capability May (NRW)
a wide range of staff and RAP website and host two face-to-face events annually and in July
stakeholders to expand the (NAIDOC
reach/extent of our RAP Week)
Social media AS, Design and Change November
Investigate and pilot new social media for ambassadors 2017
and networks to communicate and build connections
Engagement plan AS, Design and Change June 2017
Implement and review a strategy to communicate our
RAP to all staff
‘RAP the Grads’ AS, People Capability October
Provide 10 reconciliation-themed quiz questions for annually
annual graduate end-of-year fundraising function
Research First Australians charities and support one
charity before 2019
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19TABLE C3 Partnerships and outreach—with networks, partners and communities
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
C3.1 External networks Networks Assistant Network meetings
and outreach Target participation in three regional co-located Secretary (AS), quarterly, as
Promote reconciliation networks: Science Services prescribed locally
through ongoing active the Top End RAP network in Darwin Indigenous
engagement with all APS Indigenous Champions network Champions
stakeholders, including APSC Indigenous capacity forums in Canberra AS, People
networks and portfolio Capability
agencies
Partners Indigenous Promote in March
Promote our RAP with all departmental portfolio Champions 2017 and July 2019
agencies
Secretary to write to partner organisations to promote
reconciliation and engage 10 agencies
Outreach First Assistant Reported
Develop staff relationships with four external Secretary, Service annually—in May
stakeholders per region per year to encourage staff Delivery (NRW) and in July
to engage externally with Elders, guest speakers, (NAIDOC Week)
consultants, schools, universities and regional
community events
Engagement plan AS, Design and November 2017
Implement and review our national engagement plan Change
to work with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
stakeholders Ambassadors August annually
Meet local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
organisations in each of nine regions to develop guiding
principles for future engagement
C3.2 Sponsorships and Sponsor three national and three local events/ AS, Science August annually
partnerships organisations that promote reconciliation goals, such as Services,
Sponsor, partner and Garma festival and trade shows supported by AS,
support Aboriginal and People Capability,
Torres Strait Islander and all AS, Service
communities Delivery
Commit to three formal two-way partnerships to AS, Science August annually
build capacity in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services
organisations and/or communities relevant to agriculture supported by
and water resources AS, Design and
Change, AS,
People Capability
Increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait AS, Science February 2018
Islander ranger groups undertaking biosecurity work Services
with the department to at least 70
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Rewarding careers
Jawun experience
The Jawun programme builds capacity and exchanges skills through secondments of private and public
sector employees to Aboriginal corporations and communities. Kat Waterhouse is a departmental staff
member who has undertaken a Jawun secondment. Kat explained how the experience enriched her
personally and professionally:
In the language of the Kuku Yalanji people of the Mossman George, Cape York,
‘jawun’ means friend. My Jawun experience in a Yolŋu (Yolngu) community about
20 kilometres from Nhulunbuy, in north-east Arnhem Land—where people
remain very strongly connected to culture, community and land—led to more
than friendship.
My project was to develop a human resources strategy and accompanying policies
and processes for Gumatj, an organisation that uses private capital to develop and
sustain economic opportunities for Yolŋu people. I welcomed the professional
challenge of a role very different from my usual one, but the real learning for me
was outside the office and work hours.
With my public servant hat on, my time on community made me appreciate just
how removed policymakers and programme administrators are from the people
and communities these programmes affect. A policy tweak in federal government
can cascade into really fundamental changes on the ground, especially for the
supporting service providers and organisations—often significant employers in
remote communities.
From a personal perspective, I feel very lucky to now know a little about Yolŋu
culture and to have more insight into and awareness of some of the challenges for
remote communities particularly. My Jawun experience made me appreciate just
how intricate, diverse and complex First Australian cultures are. I feel honoured
to have learned from, made friends with and participated in extending the
capability of community members.
Gäluru (East Woody Beach) at sunset
Photograph: Susan Diver-Tuck
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Farewell message for Jawun programme participants
Note: In Yolŋu, ‘nhäma’ means ‘see you later’.
Photograph: Kat Waterhouse
‘I encourage the building of a supportive workplace for all of our staff. This will
help to focus and support strategies to retain our Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander employees.’
Christine Hoy, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ambassador,
Perth regional office.
‘Reconciliation is very important to me. Being part of the Indigenous network in the
North-East has allowed me to promote understanding and awareness of Aboriginal
culture. I enjoy teaching people, but I have also learnt many things about Aboriginal
history and tradition that I may not have learnt otherwise’.
Harry Colbey, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ambassador,
Brisbane regional office.
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Our commitments—rewarding careers provide opportunities
TABLE D1 Recruitment—increases number of First Australians employed
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
D1.1 Recruitment Employment strategy Chair, Aboriginal Development
Increase Aboriginal and Torres Develop, implement, review and update our and Torres Strait March 2017
Strait Islander recruitment Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Islander Employees Review annually, in
to achieve APSC target of Strategy and Action Plan 2017–2019 with Committee May (NRW)
2.5 per cent of staff Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ambassadors
Entry level programmes Assistant Secretary Targets set
Participate in existing Aboriginal and Torres Strait (AS), People February 2017
Islander entry-level programmes and expand Capability Review annually, in
recruitment opportunities into regional offices. May (NRW)
Annual targets:
Indigenous Apprenticeships Programme (six
positions)
Indigenous Australian Government Development
Programme (two positions)
establish Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
stream in department graduate programme (two
positions)
pilot CareerTrackers Indigenous Internship
Program for three interns
Special Measures and Identified positions AS, People Services October 2018
Promote use of Special Measures and Identified
positions and support staff to understand these
when recruiting
Appoint 15 staff across department (five per
year), including in human resources, property,
biosecurity and information services
Advertising and promotion AS, Design and November 2018
Promote entry level recruitment of First Change
Australians by visiting three universities and
schools annually
Support divisions to use social and other media
appropriate to the opportunity
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19TABLE D2 Retention and development—lengthens First Australians’ careers
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
D2.1 Retention and Internal mentoring and coaching Assistant Secretary July 2017
development Extend graduate mentoring arrangements to (AS), People
Increase support for Aboriginal cover all entry-level Aboriginal and Torres Strait Capability
and Torres Strait Islander staff Islander employees who choose to opt in—
10 pairs each year
Staff support AS, People March 2017
Pilot an advisory and support telephone service Capability
for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and
their managers—to be used by 20 staff
Enterprise agreement AS, People Services December 2019
Maintain cultural provisions in enterprise
agreement
D2.2 Capacity Leadership AS, People July 2019
Extend and develop Aboriginal Promote leadership training and talent Capability
and Torres Strait Islander development opportunities for 10 Aboriginal and
capacity and enhance career Torres Strait Islander staff each year
development
Short-term secondments Supervisors of all Quarterly
Support staff learning and career prospects Aboriginal and performance
through job shadowing, stretch projects, on- Torres Strait Islander reviews—to be
country placement and job-swaps staff checked July 2018
and evaluated
December 2019
Conference AS, Science Services September 2018
Convene a two-yearly national meeting of
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to
develop skills, share experiences and inform the
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment
Strategy and Action Plan
TABLE D3 Cultural recognition—of First Australians’ heritage and cultures
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
D3.1 Cultural recognition Cultural immersion programmes Assistant Secretary, February, May,
Recognise and incorporate The department submits applicants to four People Capability August and
Aboriginal and Torres Strait secondment programmes per year, including the November annually
Islander heritage and culture Jawun APS Indigenous Community Secondment
into the department Programme
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Collective decisions
Governance is the process of decision-making and practice of implementing those decisions. In the context
of reconciliation, this means shared decision-making and open dialogue in the department, with our
stakeholders and in our communities. This focus area specifies how we collectively decide on:
•• the history, structure and process of reconciliation action planning
•• mechanisms for monitoring, evaluation, reporting and improvement
•• principles for procurement, property and prosperity.
Reconciliation Action Plan process
The department has produced reconciliation action plans since 2007. It uses them to guide and set the
agenda for its reconciliation efforts and engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and
stakeholders. This RAP was developed using Reconciliation Australia’s best-practice governance principles
for organisations developing and implementing these plans. The department has adopted these governance
principles and processes for its RAP working group and RAP forum. The working group provides authority
to inform, direct and advise RAP development through consensus-based decision-making. The forum was
designed to spread influence, grow networks, increase ownership and deepen unity (Figure 2).
The 2017–2019 RAP is the result of the dedication, passion and commitment of the department’s Indigenous
Champions, working group, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ambassadors, employee networks, RAP
forum and RAP facilitation team. We have worked to embed reconciliation in the department, with our
stakeholders and with our communities. It has been a collaborative production.
The success of the RAP will depend on the department’s vision, the working group’s governance and the
values staff demonstrate in the workplace. We are ambitious in expecting that we will learn from any
occasional failures in our determination to achieve reconciliation. Together we aim to represent best practice
in the Australian Public Service and broader RAP community. We will model a workplace where Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander and other cultures are respected and engaged.
FIGURE 2 Reconciliation Action Plan governance structures
Indigenous
Champions
Advocacy and
accountability
Aboriginal and
RAP forum RAP working group
Torres Strait Islander
Widespread and RAP facilitator
employee network
engagement Advice, implementation
and reporting Widespread
engagement
Ambassadors and
RAP liaison
Local oversight
and coordination
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19Reconciliation Action Plan working group
Working group membership included Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ambassadors, the chair of the
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Committee and representatives from eight departmental
divisions. It was chaired on rotation, based on voluntary contribution to corporate citizenship rather than
formal representation of a region or division. The group held monthly meetings from May to December 2016.
A RAP implementation group will meet quarterly to implement, monitor and assess RAP strategies and
actions in 2017, 2018 and 2019.
The working group is guided by principles of inclusivity, sustainability, transparency, integrity and
accountability (detailed in the terms of reference). It has a clear purpose to:
•• provide advice and support for the RAP facilitation and planning processes
•• develop, endorse, launch and operationalise the RAP
The RAP implementation group replaced the working group after its conclusion in December 2016.
Reconciliation Action Plan forum
Membership is open to all staff. The Indigenous Champion called for expressions of interest from interested
Australian Public Service (APS), Executive Level (EL) and Senior Executive Service (SES) staff. Face-to-face
RAP events were held in National Reconciliation Week and in NAIDOC week 2016. The forum is inclusive of
cultural and demographic difference. The Indigenous Champion encourages supervisors to allow staff time
for reconciliation and taking RAP actions.
The purpose of the RAP forum is to:
•• reach and communicate directly with a wide range of staff, especially in the RAP assessment and
engagement phase
•• promote departmental reconciliation initiatives and support colleagues through their divisional,
regional and personal networks
•• run informal events, online forums, active social media, dedicated dialogues and
occasional meetings.
Ambassadors
Ambassadors represent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff in the national office and each regional
office, including the Torres Strait Islands. They initiate and lead the employee networks (also known as
RAP-links networks). Ambassadors support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, provide input to
departmental policies and strategies, and highlight the contributions of all staff to reconciliation.
Indigenous Champions
Department Secretary Daryl Quinlivan and Deputy Secretary Lyn O’Connell are committed and passionate
Indigenous and RAP champions. Together they have represented the interests of the department’s Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander employees at national, regional and external meetings across the Australian Public
Service. The champions encourage staff engagement through ambassadors’ networks and participation in
diversity initiatives and events.
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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Reconciliation Action Plan 2017–19RAP working group members and guests meet Indigenous Champions on proposed reconciliation actions
Seated (L-R) Jessica Tapsell, Anna Carr, Kat Waterhouse, Dakota Killer, Gayle Heron, Paul Pak Poy
Standing (L-R) John Gray, Hedley Vogt, Christine Hoy, Vanessa Berry, Steven Burggraaff, Travis Power, Lyn O’Connell, Mary Colreavy, Dennis Seinor, Emily Canning,
Daryl Quinlivan, Rebecca Russell, Andrew Pennington, Bruce Lansdown, Nick Hamilton. Photograph: Brett Richards
Our commitments—on decisions, success, procurement
TABLE E1 Shared decision making–influences and promotes self-determination
Action Measureable target Responsibility Time line
E1.1 RAP implementation Meet quarterly to oversee the development, Assistant Secretary February, May,
group implementation, legacy and evaluation of current (AS), People August and
Actively promote the RAP and future RAPs Capability November 2017 and
and support reconciliation Establish terms of reference for the group. Ensure 2018
initiatives across the agency the implementation group has Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander membership
Extend RAP ownership and reconciliation capacity Ambassadors Rotations from
through rotating the RAP ambassador role in and Indigenous February to July and
People Capability branch through two placements Champions August to December
per year of two to six months each annually
E1.2 Ambassadors and Support ambassadors and RAP sponsors in AS, People March 2017
networks each regional office and identify clear roles and Capability, and all
Build an inclusive, dynamic responsibilities AS, Service Delivery
and tolerant workplace culture
Establish or extend regional networks in Adelaide, Chair, Aboriginal June 2017
Brisbane, Cairns, Canberra, Darwin, Melbourne, and Torres Strait Regional network
Perth, Torres Strait Islands and Sydney Islander Employee meetings as required
Strengthen national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Committee
Islander Employee Network
E1.3 Divisional business Reflect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Indigenous Divisional plans set
plans outcomes and reconciliation goals in all divisional Champions July annually and
Integrate and coordinate plans and performance reviews (16 divisions in reviewed in January
reconciliation into our core 2017) annually
business
Divisions that work with Aboriginal and Torres Indigenous March and
Strait Islander policy matters meet twice yearly to Champions September annually
share data and advice
Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
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